Greeting card and gift package combination

ABSTRACT

The Combination Greeting Card &amp; Gift Package is a gift card that can have a personal message written inside, but also with a compartment containing a gift, such as chocolates, jelly beans or any other type of gift. The invention has extension flaps (G, K) which seal the inner compartment in order to hold the gift inside, and at the same time, make the package ready for posting. When received the removable or tear-off segments so the outer packaging can be removed, leaving a greetings card that can be stood up as a regular greeting card.

The present invention relates to a gift package comprising a single sheet formed of any suitable material or combination of materials, including paper, paperboard, cardboard, corrugate, polymers, plastics, foils, or the like, including laminates of one or more of such materials and/or such materials or laminates thereof with or without a coating or thereon, cut to shape and folded to create a three dimensional box with a gift card, address label and necessary flaps to make a sealed unit, attached as part of the package.

The package can be decorated using a laminated layer, for example a polymer or foil layer as the coating itself, on a paperboard or plastic or metal base, or a base made of any other type of material, for example using a colored coating material on cardboard, by printing or screening a design or other decoration on a material, adhering a decorative material to a base material or any other material or method known or hereinafter used to create a decorative appearance on the package. The material for the package may be formed of a rigid or semi-rigid structure for the integrity of the package and contents.

The package can be folded with face F showing for display purposes showing the greeting card face by a retailer. This is covered by the packaging (I), when folded and sealed to be sent by post to the recipient.

The protective package does not require, but may have, a decorative appearance, and can include a space for the address of the recipient to be written and space for postage. The package can accept items placed in it loose, or in their own packaging.

The package includes a closure or more to seal the package once the gift has been placed inside. Additionally, the protective package preferably includes a self sealing adhesive strip or strips to seal the package or a tongue a groove method or a similar method of securely closing the package. The tongue and the closure flap may be removed by being cut or tearing along a perforated line so to enable the package to be stood up and have a clean appearance of a regular greetings card. The address panel may or may not be decorated and may or may not be removable. If the address panel is not removable, the package may be folded in a way to make a three dimensional greetings card as can be seen in FIG. 3.

According to the present invention there is provided a packaging means comprising a content storage section, a panel section foldable against said storage section along lines of weakness, and means for sealing said content storage section, said panel section being configurable in at least two configurations in which said means for sealing can seal said content storage section such that the panel section is not free to move when the content storage section is so sealed.

In a preferable embodiment, the packaging means is such that, in all said configurations, the folded panel section lies substantially flat against the storage section and no lines of weakness cross the exposed part of the panel section.

In a preferable embodiment, the packaging means is such that, in all said configurations, part of said panel section is exposed whilst the rest of the panel section is concealed, a different part of said panel section being exposed in each configuration, and said exposed part of said panel section being exposed above the same face of the storage section in all such configurations.

The packaging means may be such that said sealing means comprises at least two different sealing mechanisms. A first sealing mechanism of said at least two different sealing mechanisms may allow for repeated unsealing and resealing. A second sealing mechanism of said at least two different sealing mechanisms may only be sealed and unsealed once. Preferably, the first sealing mechanism can still be used after the second sealing mechanism has been used and unsealed.

The first sealing mechanism may comprises covering flaps for covering openings in said storage section, integrally attached to said panel section, and sealing flaps integrally connected to said covering flaps, such that said sealing flaps fold inside the storage section to seal said content storage section and can be withdrawn to unseal said content storage section.

The second sealing mechanism may comprise adhesive, disposed on said sealing flaps, for sticking said sealing flaps to said storage section, such that said covering flaps cover and seal the openings in the storage section. The second sealing mechanism may be released by separating the part of the sealing flap containing the adhesive from the part of the sealing flap no containing the adhesive along a line of weakness.

Preferably, the sealing flaps and said cover flaps are separable along lines of weakness from said panel section.

Preferably, the two sealing means can be used in all the configurations.

The packaging means may be integrally formed from one piece of material. Preferably, the template from which the packaging means is formed can be perfectly tessellated with identical templates.

Preferably, the storage section is foldable, along lines of weakness, into a rectangular tube. Further, the packaging means may be folded to be substantially flat.

The attached drawings will help understand the invention. The drawings, however do not limit the invention in any way, and are presented to present the preferred manufacture of the invention:

FIG. 1 is a view of the invention, in its closed state as a gift package and ready to mail. The panel G is inserted into the box that has been created by folding panels A, B, C, D and E and attaching A to E by means of gluing or using an adhesive strip, or by using a tongue or other method to attach them together in order to create the box or attached to panel D by glue or adhesive strip or any other method. Panel H closes the top of the box. Panels J & K act in the same manner as panels H & G and may be longer than illustrated in order to accommodate different methods of sealing the package.

FIG. 2 is a view of the invention with the panel I folded inside panel F so it is facing panel B. This is the configuration to be used for display purposes at the point of sale, but may also be the way the gift is chosen to be given to the recipient should the gift not be being mailed. The package is again closed, but no glue is used to seal the package, so the purchaser can open the package and write their greeting inside, on panel B.

FIG. 3 is a view of the invention in an open configuration showing it being displayed as a three dimensional triangular card. The panels J & K and G & H have been removed or folded inside the package and the gift has been removed from the compartment created by folding panels A, B, C, D. Panel I may also be removed in order to leave a more standard greetings card.

FIG. 4 is a view of the invention in the process of being closed in order to be mailed. The gift giver has written their greeting on panel B and will now will insert panels G & K into the compartment created, or attach the panels G & K to the outside of panel D, so that panels H & J close over the void created by the folding of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a view of the invention in a basic, unassembled configuration. To create the package, Panel A is folded 90 degrees inwards to Panel B, Panel B is folded inwards to Panel C, Panel C is folded 90 degrees inwards to Panel D, Panel D is folded 90 degrees inwards to Panel E and Panel A is attached to Panel E, forming a three dimensional box with no top or bottom. Panel F is then folded 90 degrees inwards to Panel B and Panel I can be folded either 90 degrees to the front face or the back face of Panel F according to whether the package is to be mailed or not. The bottom of the package is then closed by inserting Panel K into the open box shape created above, and Panel J acts as the barrier to create a container into which the gift may then be inserted. The Panel G can then be inserted into the top of the container as created above and Panel H then closes the package ready for giving or mailing.

FIG. 6 is a bottom or top elevation view of the invention demonstrating the way it can be folded.

In order to understand the present invention, it is useful to first consider FIG. 5, which shows a plan view of the unassembled template of an embodiment of the invention.

The packaging unit is constructed by folding the template, which is formed from a single continuous piece of suitable material. The template consists of rectangular panels (Panels A-K) integrally connected along lines of weakness (represented by the solid lines separating the panels in FIG. 5). The template is folded along these predetermined lines of weakness.

The dimensions of Panels B, D, F and I are substantially identical to each other. The dimensions of panels C and E are also substantially identical, as are the dimensions of Panels H and J.

In a contemplated embodiment, the combined width of panels G and H (that is the combined horizontal dimensions as shown in FIG. 5) would be the same as that of panels J and K. Further, this combined width would be half the width (once again, the horizontal dimension as shown in FIG. 5) of panel I. This would be advantageous as it would allow templates for the packaging unit to be perfectly tessellated on a sheet of material, which would minimize wastage of the material when cutting the templates. This tessellation would be achieved by positioning templates next to each other, with alternate templates rotated by 180 degrees, such that the template sections defined by Panels A-F lie next to each other.

As shown in FIG. 6, the template is folded so that Panels A, B, C, D and E form a package or content storage section in the shape of a rectangular tube. Once folded, Panel A is stuck to panel E by any suitable adhesive means. This creates a loop section, which is foldable to create a rectangular tube. The rectangular tube thus formed in bounded by Panels A and E on one side opposite Panel C on another, with the remaining sides formed by Panels B and D.

As also shown in FIG. 6, the template can be further folded such that Panels F and I lie flat against panel B. As such, Panels F and I form a reversible cover for one face of the loop section. That is, either Panel F or Panel I can be folded to be visible on the surface of the loop section, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. It is also possible for the loop section to be folded flat, along the existing lines of weakness connecting the panels. As such the packaging unit can still be folded to be substantially flat, making it convenient to transmit the packaging unit at this level of assembly. The assembly of the template into the packaging as described above is very simple, which is also advantageous.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the packaging unit folded as shown in FIG. 6. Panels F and I are folded such that Panel F lies flat against Panel B and Panel I lies flat against Panel F. As such, Panels B and F are hidden from view, and only one side of Panel I is exposed. FIG. 2 shows an alternative configuration in which Panel I has been folded to lie between Panels B and F. That is, Panel I lies flat against Panel B, whilst Panel F lies flat again Panel I. In this configuration, Panels B and I are completely hidden from view, whilst only one side of Panel F is exposed. It is noted that the sides of Panels F and I exposed in the two alternative configurations are on different sides of the original template.

FIG. 3 shows a further possible configuration of the packaging unit. In this configuration, Panels F and I are folded such that they form a triangular prism with Panel B. In this configuration the packaging outwardly displays the face of Panel F exposed in the configuration of FIG. 2, and the face of Panel I that is not exposed in the configuration of FIG. 1. In an alternative to this configuration, Panel I could be folded between panels F and B, so that it lies next to panel F. In this configuration the packaging unit resembles a standard gift card, and stands up for display in the same way as such a card.

The packaging unit of the present invention has the advantage that in all of the configurations shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, no lines of weakness cross the exposed panels.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the packaging unit being folded into the configuration of FIG. 1. In the configuration of either FIG. 1 or FIG. 2, Panels H and J fold to cover the open ends of the rectangular tube created by Panels A-E. In order to secure these panels in position (and thereby seal the rectangular tube in which suitable content can be stored) two sealing mechanisms are provided.

The first sealing mechanism allows the content storage section to be repeatedly opened and resealed. Preferably, the first sealing mechanism comprises folding Panels H and J to cover the ends of the rectangular tube storage section bounded by Panels A-E, and tucking Panels G and K inside the rectangular tube storage section. This allows the ends of the tube to sealed, but also allows for repeated opening and resealing by pulling Panels G and K back out of the storage section. However, alternative methods of providing a reusable seal could also be used, such as a reusable adhesive strip on Panels G and K. The reusable seal mechanism makes it easy to slide a gift or other contents into or out of the storage section, and to keep any contents in the storage section secure.

The second sealing mechanism provides a seal that can be used only once. Preferably, the second sealing mechanism comprises adhesive strips provided on Panels H and J. When panels G and K are folded to cover the rectangular storage section, Panels H and J are then also folded to lie next to, and to stick to, Panel D on the outside of the rectangular tube content storage section. When it is subsequently desired to access the content storage area, the seal is preferably broken by tearing away strips of Panels H and J which are disposed closer on Panels H and J to Panels G and K respectively than the adhesive strips. Preferably, these strips are predefined and prepared to ease removal. Once these strips are removed, portions of Panels H and J will remain attached to Panel D, but these portions will no longer be attached to the rest of Panels H and J. That is to say, the portion of Panels H and J that hold the adhesive strip are separable along a line of weakness from the rest of Panels H and J. Therefore the remains of Panels H and J (which are not attached to Panel D), and Panels G and K will be free to move and the storage section will no longer be sealed.

The adhesive strips of the second sealing mechanism are disposed on the same side of the template as the face of Panel F that is exposed in the configuration of FIG. 2. As such, the second sealing mechanism can be used when with the packaging unit is arranged in the configuration of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. That is, in the configurations of both FIGS. 1 and 2, the same side of Panels H and J come into contact with Panel D of the content storage section. In other words, each sealing means can be used in both configurations.

In a preferred embodiment, even after the seal of the second sealing mechanism has been broken, it is still possible for the first sealing mechanism to be used.

The different possible configurations of FIGS. 1 and 2 have the advantage that the packaging unit can be used to show different things on the same face of the folded unit. Therefore, Panel F may be used to present some decorative picture or message, whilst Panel I may be used to present other information. Further, Panel D is not covered in either of the configurations of FIGS. 1 and 2. Therefore, any decoration or information provided on the face of Panel D that is outwardly visible when the rectangular storage tube is formed will always be visible.

An example of how the alternative configurations and sealing mechanisms may be used is now discussed. The packaging unit may be displayed in the configuration exposing a face of Panel F. This face might display the front of a greetings card. A message could then be written on the reverse of Panel F, or on Panel B. Further, a message could be written on the face of Panel I not exposed in the configuration of FIG. 1. Optionally, these panels may also carry further decoration.

The packaging unit could then be reconfigured to expose the face of Panel I. This face could provide space for printing an address and affixing postage, or Panel I could contain an indication that postage has already been paid. In this configuration, the Panel faces mentioned above, carrying the decoration and any written message, are concealed. The package could then be transmitted in this configuration.

It is contemplated that the second, more secure, sealing mechanism would be used during any transmittal, for instance through the post. The first, reusable, sealing mechanism could be used whilst the packaging unit is on display in a shop and until the packaging unit is ready to be sent. As such, the adhesive strips of the second sealing mechanism would be covered with removable strips of a suitable non-stick material, so that the adhesive strips remain covered and do not stick to anything until they are required.

When the packaging unit of the example is received after transmittal, the recipient will be able to break the seal of the second sealing mechanism and access whatever has been placed in the content storage section. Further they will be able to reconfigure the packaging unit so that the decorative face of Panel F is exposed and so that they can view any message or decoration on the other panels that were hidden in transit. As such, the packaging unit has the advantage that it gives the enjoyment of opening a package or gift, and also of opening a greetings card.

It is also contemplated that the packaging unit could subsequently be displayed in the manner of a greetings card. The packaging unit could be displayed in the configuration of FIG. 3, as a three sided card, or Panel I could be folded in between Panels F and B to display the packaging unit in a configuration more like that of a standard greetings card. Either of these configurations would be facilitated by folding over Panels G and K so that they are hidden and do not interfere with standing the packaging upright. Alternatively, Panels G and K could be made detachable along the lines of weakness that attach them to Panels H and J. As such, when it was desired to display the packaging unit after receipt, Panels G and K could be easily removed.

It is also contemplated that Panel I could be made to be detachable along the line of weakness that attaches Panel Ito Panel F. After receipt, Panel I could then be completely removed from the packaging unit so that the packaging unit could be displayed in the manner of a standard greetings card, without the extra panel folded inside.

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are also contemplated. For instance, the dimensions of the packaging unit would preferably be chosen such that the packaging unit, when the content storage section if full, would easily fit through a standard letter box. It is also contemplated that the dimensions of the packaging unit would be chosen such that the packaging unit can be displayed in pre-existing shop display stands, for instance those used for displaying CDs.

It is also contemplated that other templates and shapes of packaging other than the rectangular shape of the example could also be used, whilst retaining the ability to have panels that can be configured to provide different exposed faces whilst concealing other faces of the panels. For instance, an alternative template might contain further extra panels between Panels F and I, to provide further possible configurations for the packaging unit. 

1.-17. (canceled)
 18. A packaging means comprising a content storage section, a panel section foldable against said storage section along lines of weakness, and means for sealing said content storage section, said panel section being configurable in at least two configurations in which said means for sealing can seal said content storage section such that the panel section is not free to move when the content storage section is so sealed, wherein said sealing means comprises at least two different sealing mechanisms, wherein the first sealing mechanism comprises covering flaps for covering openings in said storage section, integrally attached to said panel section, and sealing flaps integrally connected to said covering flaps, such that said sealing flaps fold inside the storage section to seal said content storage section and can be withdrawn to unseal said content storage section.
 19. The packaging means according to claim 18, wherein, in all said configurations, the folded panel section lies substantially flat against the storage section and no lines of weakness cross the exposed part of the panel section.
 20. A packaging means according to claim 18, wherein, in all said configurations, part of said panel section is exposed whilst the rest of the panel section is concealed, a different part of said panel section being exposed in each configuration, and said exposed part of said panel section being exposed above the same face of the storage section in all such configurations.
 21. The packaging means according to claim 18, wherein a first sealing mechanism of said at least two different sealing mechanisms allows for repeated unsealing and resealing.
 22. The packaging means according to claim 21, wherein a second sealing mechanism of said at least two different sealing mechanisms can only be sealed and unsealed once.
 23. The packaging means according to claim 22, wherein said first sealing mechanism can still be used after the second sealing mechanism has been used and unsealed.
 24. The packaging means according to claim 18 wherein said second sealing mechanism comprises adhesive, disposed on said sealing flaps, for sticking said sealing flaps to said storage section, such that said covering flaps cover and seal the openings in the storage section.
 25. The packaging means according to claim 24 wherein the second sealing mechanism is released by separating the part of the sealing flap containing the adhesive from the part of the sealing flap no containing the adhesive along a line of weakness.
 26. The packaging means according to claim 18, wherein said sealing flaps and said cover flaps are separable along lines of weakness from said panel section.
 27. The packaging means according to claim 18, wherein said two sealing means can each be used in all said configurations.
 28. The packaging means according to claim 18, wherein said packaging means is integrally formed from one piece of material.
 29. The packaging means according to claim 18, wherein the template from which the packaging means is formed can be perfectly tessellated with identical templates.
 30. The packaging means according to claim 18, wherein said storage section is foldable, along lines of weakness, into a rectangular tube.
 31. The packaging means according to claim 18, wherein the packaging means can be folded to be substantially flat. 